Find a therapist, counselor or psychologist in Richmond, VA (Shockoe Bottom)

"As a woman who has overcome multiple life challenges, I want to assist you with resiliency. I'm going to meet you wherever you are currently and help you thrive"

Tammy Simms is a supervisor in Social Work who has worked in the mental health field for 10+ years, working with children as young as age 5 and adults up to age 99. She enjoys working in the mental health field assisting individuals in managing life issues including grief, anxiety, depression, anger, PTSD, and trauma.

Tammy completed her Master of Social Work at Our Lady of The Lake University. She is a widow and has experienced loss, and she understands the struggles of moving forward toward resilience. Tammy utilized various treatment approaches including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, and family system therapy.

We all come from different walks of life and may have similar, yet different, challenges or struggles. Tammy is confident she can support you by meeting you where you are currently in your journey, and help you move forward toward growth. If you are ready to take this journey, please schedule an appointment with her today!

"I understand how difficult it is to talk to others about personal issues."

Connie Ihle is a Licensed Professional Counselor Resident with 3 years of experience in outpatient and crisis care. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, mood disorders, as well as personality disorders. Connie believes everyone wants to live their best life but sometimes it’s hard to know where to begin. She aims to make adolescents, adults, and seniors feel accepted, understood, and valued on their journey toward well-being.

Connie graduated from Wake Forest University with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health. Her counseling approach is strength-based, and she draws upon techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused CBT, solution-focused therapy, reality therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.

No matter what you struggle with, please know you are not alone. Connie will meet you where you are and together you will overcome present challenges and underlying issues. She considers it an honor to be in that safe space with you and encourages you to schedule an appointment.

"I am a trained mental health professional."

Dr. Naharia Holt-Elliott is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Substance Abuse Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and Approved Clinical Supervisor (LPC, CSAC, NCC, ACS) in the state of Virginia with more than 10 years of experience. She is also a mother and Army veteran who specializes in helping adult clients and families that are having difficulties managing stress and anxiety, struggling with coping skills, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, combat, substance abuse, family and relational issues. 

Dr. Holt-Elliott offers cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectal behavioral therapy, and cognitive processing therapy, depending on the client's needs and preferences in sessions. She treats each family and individual as unique, offering individualized care that aims to empower each client to succeed, and remain motivated to change. 

With Dr. Holt-Elliott's assistance, individuals and groups alike can receive professional support and guidance during hard times. After all, that's when a mental health professional like Dr. Holt-Elliot is most needed. 

"I know therapy takes real vulnerability, so I bring my full, authentic self to meet clients with connection and meaningful change who are looking for more than just someone to nod along."

Victoria “Vic” Tedrow is a Licensed Professional Counselor Resident with 5 years of experience. She specializes in trauma-informed care, identity exploration, and navigating life transitions. Vic is experienced in helping emerging adults and professionals manage anxiety, relationship struggles, OCD, and self-esteem challenges. Her ideal clients may feel stuck or disconnected from their values, finding themselves people pleasing, or stuck in self-criticism, and are ready to do the deep work of healing, creating healthier ways of being. Vic creates a compassionate and collaborative space for growth, clarity, and lasting change.

Vic earned a Master’s in Counseling from Eastern Mennonite University. She integrates parts work, emotion‑focused modalities, family systems, and psychodynamic approaches to help clients experience change, untangle shame, rebuild self‑trust, and reconnect with their authentic voice.

Vic understands that starting therapy can feel daunting, especially if you’ve struggled to feel seen or loved. She offers a compassionate, real space where your needs truly matter. If you're ready for warmth, honesty, and an engaged partnership on your journey, she'd be delighted to get to know you.

""For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers." –Proverbs 11:14"

Blakely Baker is a Resident in Social Work with 2 years of experience helping children, youth, adolescents, adults, and seniors with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, trauma, and substance use. Blakely has spent time working in crisis stabilization and school counseling.

Blakely received her Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. She uses a variety of clinical approaches that are targeted to client needs such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectic behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

Blakely strives to meet her clients' needs by providing a welcoming, safe, and brave space to process emotions and experiences. She cares deeply about each client's success and works to highlight strengths to overcome challenges. Blakely is ready to help you achieve your goals and conquer your battles.

"As a survivor of many different life experiences, I am able to work with clients and understand the challenges that life can often bring them. "

Stephanie Tingler is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 7 years of experience in the counseling field. She is extremely passionate about walking alongside clients and providing the support and tools to help them reach their personal goals and live the life they desire.

Stephanie completed her Master's degree in Professional Counseling at Liberty University. She has experienced many different mental health challenges and knows what it’s like to work through them and experience true happiness through hardship. She utilizes a variety of therapy methods including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), attachment-based therapy (ABT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).

Stephanie wants to help you take the first step to healing and living your best life. She looks forward to helping you gain new insight about who you are and help you learn ways to use new tools to reach your goals and grow in your own strength. If you’re ready to begin your journey schedule an appointment with her today.

"I understand the issues and struggles that many of us face, and I have a gentle but direct approach for those seeking services."

Kirstie James is a Supervisee in Social Work with 1 year of experience providing individual counseling to children, adolescents, and adults. She works with children through difficulties centered around behavior and emotional awareness, and with adults seeking grief support, stress management, and help adjusting to life transitions. Kirstie’s goal is to empower individuals to develop autonomy and self-reliance via an environment that provides safety and security. She offers active listening, reflection, and interactive feedback to her clients.

Kirstie received her Master of Social Work from Walden University. She utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, emotionally focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques. Kirstie makes the therapeutic environment fun for children by incorporating games and offers a calm, relaxed, and open environment for adults.

Kirstie is a warm, vibrant, and understanding therapist willing and eager to assist clients through the triumphs and difficulties of daily life. She will help you break down goals into manageable steps and support you every step of the way. Reach out to Kirstie today!

"As an African-American female, I understand the presenting issues of financial and racial disparity, cultural bias, and intergenerational issues."

 Vanessa Johnson is an LPC and Certified Substance Use Counselor for the Commonwealth of Virginia. Vanessa offers over 30 years of experience in helping individuals with physical, emotional, and mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, and substance use. She has worked as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and a Certified Substance Use Counselor with the Commonwealth of Virginia. She is also an Ordained Minister experienced in pastoral counseling.

Vanessa facilitates the growth experience for her clients using strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, and reality counseling to assist her clients with the issues they are presenting. She is compassionate and respects the individuality and cultural backgrounds of her clients. Vanessa has the ability to establish a healthy rapport with her clients, understanding it takes courage to ask for help.

“I believe counseling is a partnership with the counselor and client striving to achieve a healthy life purpose for self,” says Vanessa.

"Life can be hard. Because of that, my goal as a mental health professional is to create a warm, empathetic, and positive environment for clients to cope and heal through the difficult times, while working towards wellness in anticipation of better times ahead."

I have been a Resident in Counseling in Virginia for 3 years. Throughout my work, I’ve supported clients from diverse backgrounds facing challenges related to relationships, self-esteem, trauma, mood disorders, and daily functioning. I have a particular passion for helping individuals with a history of sexual trauma heal and reclaim their sense of empowerment.

I earned my Master’s in Counseling Education from Virginia Commonwealth University. My practice is grounded in person-centered therapy, emphasizing empathy, authenticity, and collaboration. This approach reflects my belief that people can grow and become fully functioning, and I integrate other modalities to support each client’s healing journey.

My goal in therapy is to provide a safe and supportive space that encourages self-exploration and personal growth. I strive to help clients build trust in themselves, embrace openness, and move toward living more fulfilling and meaningful lives. I welcome the opportunity to support you on your path to wellness.

"I am committed to providing an empathic, warm, and judgment-free space where you can feel understood and empowered."

Alex Johnson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience. She works with clients 18+, and specializes in anxiety disorders, depression, self-esteem issues, and ADHD management.

Alex has her Master's in Social Work from the University of Michigan. She holds a child welfare certificate from Michigan State University and has experience in crisis intervention, foster care systems, and trauma-informed care.

Alex believes therapy should be collaborative and rooted in trust. She creates a warm, judgment-free space and focuses on building strong therapeutic relationships as the foundation for meaningful change.

"I believe there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, so I meet each client where they are while working to improve their strengths and address weaknesses."

Heather Hiner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has over 7 years of experience. She specializes in assisting adults and seniors who have a range of concerns including chronic illness, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, relationships issues, parenting challenges, behavioral problems, as well as mood and personality disorders. Heather also has expertise in working with the geriatric population.

Heather received her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California and also holds a Master's degree in Health & Wellness Counseling from Liberty University. Heather has previous experience in Crisis Intervention, Medical Social Work, and Disaster and Recovery Services. Heather utilizes a variety of clinical approaches that are targeted to client needs including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solutions-focused therapy (SFT), and mindfulness-based methods.

Heather truly believes in assisting others in meeting their goals and has a desire to partner with clients to help them have the greatest success. Heather feels that it is important to assist others in identifying their strengths to overcome all of life’s challenges, and is ready to help you achieve a higher quality of life.

Amanda Hunt is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and National Certified Counselor (LMHC-NCC) with nearly 10 years of clinical experience helping people in search of therapeutic support and guidance as they work through life obstacles. She specializes in helping clients who are faced with depression, codependency, anger, low self-esteem. addiction, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, and more.

She earned her Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling at Monmouth University in New Jersey and takes a therapeutic approach that is individualized to the client, family, or couple to ensure their needs are addressed properly from a caring and empathetic place. Some of her approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) strengths-based, solution-focused (SFT), mindfulness, and dialectical behavior therapy techniques (DBT). 

Amanda comes from an empathetic and compassionate perspective, to help you improve your sense of well-being. She will strive to help you recognize your personal abilities to overcome challenges in your life, and collaboratively develop a plan to achieve your personal and therapeutic goals.

"I am passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges."

I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with 29 years of experience providing personalized, evidence-based care to adolescents, teens, adults, and seniors. I specialize in treating a range of mental health conditions through a collaborative approach that may include therapy, medication management, and holistic lifestyle interventions. My goal is to support lasting emotional wellness and improved quality of life.

I earned my Master of Science in nursing from Liberty University. Throughout my career, I have focused on integrating clinical expertise with a whole-person approach to care. I work closely with clients to develop individualized treatment plans that align with their goals, values, and overall well-being.

I strive to create a caring, supportive environment where you feel heard and respected. Together, we will build a treatment plan designed to help you navigate challenges, strengthen coping skills, and move toward meaningful, positive change.

"I understand how life’s demands and challenges can affect every part of us, and I provide a supportive partnership to help you navigate those seasons with clarity and confidence."

I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with 7 years of experience providing care in outpatient, inpatient, and telehealth settings. I support individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, personality disorders, and life transitions. Many of my clients seek clarity, symptom relief, and practical strategies to feel more balanced and in control.

I earned my Master of Science in nursing from Walden University. I provide thoughtful medication management paired with supportive, solution-focused care. My approach emphasizes education, shared decision-making, and realistic goal setting, grounded in evidence-based practice tailored to each person’s needs.

Seeking help takes courage, and you don’t have to navigate this alone. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where we work collaboratively to improve symptoms, strengthen coping skills, and build lasting emotional wellness. When you’re ready, I’m here to support your next steps forward.

"I bring warmth, cultural humility, and a grounded, nonjudgmental approach to care, helping clients feel seen, safe, and supported as they work toward emotional balance and lasting change."

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with 9 years of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based care to adolescents and adults. I work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma-related concerns, and life stressors, including navigating major transitions and emotional overwhelm, helping them build practical coping skills and greater self-awareness.

I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Northern Kentucky University. I use a collaborative, individualized approach that integrates evidence-based therapies, psychoeducation, and medication management when appropriate. 

I strive to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can explore challenges, strengthen coping strategies, and work toward emotional balance. Together, we will focus on your goals and strengths so you feel understood, empowered, and ready to take meaningful steps toward improved mental wellness.

"As a systemic therapist, I know that taking the first steps towards change may be the hardest steps you take in life, but you don't have to explore your path alone."

Sara Kuntz is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 10 years of professional experience working with clients of all ages who are struggling to manage conditions or issues related to postpartum depression, academic-related problems, low self-esteem, sex, sexual orientation, chronic stress, and women’s issues. 

Sara graduated with her Bachelor's degree in Art Therapy from Seton Hill University and continued her education, receiving her Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seton Hill University, as well. Since graduating, her education has given her opportunities to take mental health jobs in a variety of different specialties. Sara has been able to own her own practice, work as a mobile therapist, and prides herself on being a positive, compassionate, hard-working therapist who strives to help clients develop a strong sense of self-awareness.

Sara will help you to recognize the impact of systemic influence as you work towards a more functional, fulfilling life with her professional support. Through meaningful sessions that put an emphasis on personalized care, you can start developing a stronger sense of self-purpose and clarity. 

"As a woman and a person of color, I understand the need for diversity, inclusion, and equality."

Sharane Leabough is an LCSW Supervisee who has more than 6 years of experience. She has worked with children and their families in both mental health and child welfare capacities. Sharane specializes in serving individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, child therapy, coping skills, family conflict, as well as career and mental stress. Sharane desires to work with pre-teens, teenagers, and adults who are willing to engage in the therapeutic relationship. Sharane is open to working with children, as she has experience serving children and their families.

Sharane obtained her Master's degree in Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University. Sharane incorporates multiple modalities when serving clients, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness. She also incorporates compassion, emotional, faith-based, and culturally sensitive approaches.

Sharane enjoys working with clients to identify their needs and goals. She has made a commitment to be present for her clients through each stage of the therapy process. Sharane believes that it is essential to recognize that clients are the experts in their own lives, and she is ready to help clients identify solutions to overcome their current struggles.

Justin Michaud is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LCPC) with over 7 years of professional experience working with clients of all ages to help them cope with family conflict, couple's issues, PTSD, trauma, depression, stress, and more.

Justin served as a Director of therapy services at a residential program for young adults and has seen some of the lowest valleys that patients have walked through, and sat with them in that valley so that their loneliness was not so daunting on the journey of empowerment and recovery. They have also seen patients on the highest peaks of their life and stood with them as they basked in their triumphs of empowerment and recovery.

Justin can be the guide that you need when you feel lost along your journey through life and would be honored if you allow them to help you achieve the mental health you desire.